Tuesday, August 29, 2006

A Very Good Year

Exactly one year ago, Raider Take sent out its first signal to an audience of zero. Today, more than 240 takes later, this little diary has grown into a robust dialogue with some of the best and brightest minds in the Raider Nation, as evidenced in the more than 1,500 (rough estimate) comments registered to date.

As I’ve said before, I am awed by the level of analysis, insight and humor brought to this site by various commentators. You stand in firm rebuke of those who would slander the Raider Nation as a bunch slack-jawed hoodlums. I defy anyone to prove that there is a more informed and passionate fan base in the NFL.

It’s funny to read that first take of August 29, 2005, written in such a spirit of optimism in advance of a season that would quickly turn tragic. But I’ve got that same feeling of optimism again as we head into the 2006 season. That’s the point of being a fan, isn’t it? I don’t want to be dragged into a new season. I want to charge into it, eager and hopeful.

Personally, I am thrilled that year two of Raider Take begins with round two of Art Shell as head coach. This should be a very good year.

RT - Your blog is the first site I visit anytime I log on. Your takes are always right on the mark. Without sounding like a broken record, your humor combined with optimism is what drives true Raider fans to your blog. My favorite takes are the ones "outing" the haters and so-called "writers" who spread their hate without facts to back it up. Keep up the good work.P.S. I will be traveling from Arizona to attend the Raiders Chargers opener this season. I will certainly help lead the RAAIIDDEERRS! chant on "Little Phil's" first drive of his NFL career.Thanks, Tim (azraider63)

Raider Raza, put me down for a cold one. I encourage everyone to check out your raiderraza.blogspot.com for some great takes.

Calico Jack, you have been so generous in spirit since day one; it's an honor to join you in raising the Black Flag! You must be coming up on one year with Silver & Black Forever, too?

Horsecollarjack, I consider your laughter the highest praise. Please don't turn on me if I spank those Hounds!

AZraider, much appreciated! I consider Arizona my home away from home. Too bad the Raiders aren't playing the Cardinals out there this year. You are a true fan to make that big trek for September 11. I look forward to spooking Little Phil with you!

Nice work RT! Your site is the first I go to when I turn on my 'puter in the AM -- always there for great takes, in-depth analysis, and unbridled love for da Raiderz. Here's looking forward to an awesome Year 2!

raider take - happy 2nd anniversary. to think i started reading this lovey dovey stuff about al davis (you folks know how i feel about the man) i never thought i'd stick around. but we are all human beings entitled to our own opinion. i like to say that over the past oh - year i guess? reading/catching up on raider take, i've come to find that the people who drop in here are pretty cool. so i've grown up a bit and toned down on my al davis rants. bottom line is, we are all in unity about one thing: we love the raiders. we may have differing opinions on things but we are all brothers (and sisters) in one raider nation. raider world i should say. anyway, again, happy anniversary raider take and keep up the good work! GO RAIDERS!

Sean, CONGRATS on a year of well thought out takes! I love that there is a forum out there with fans just as passionate as me! Look forward to the season! And of course to my trip there in NOV against the Donkeys! Hope to meet! Keep up the GREAT WORK!

Not unlike azraider63, raidertake.com is my first stop on the web. It seems like just yesterday that I found your blog during the second half of week 2. It truly is a pleasure to be a part of this community.

And in honor of RT's birthday...Some "News You Can't Use". Go get 'em..."Mercurial team owner Al Davis fired coaches, ran off star players, and drafted kickers in the first round against the advice of those he had hired to assist him with such matters. And though the Raiders made some playoff appearances, and posted winning seasons here and there, they weren't often taken seriously or listed with the elite franchises in the league any longer."

I found this blog last winter searching the web for any info on the coaching situation. Glad I found you. I live in Idaho and have no one to share my raider enthusiasm. I don't often post because I don't want to restate things already said, but really enjoy reading the intelligent and witty dialogue. Your blog has inspired me to make the trek to Oakland for a game. It has been since the early 80's which is way too long! Thanks Take.Go Raiders!